After three months in caretaker charge following the dismissal of Michael Laudrup the 35-year-old can now look to plan for the longer term having signed a three-year contract.

He has been rewarded for securing the club's Premier League status for another season and is now looking to build for the future.

Monk, who has been at the club for a decade as a player, is confident he can take the Swans in the right direction after concerns over Laudrup's leadership led to the Dane being dismissed in early February.

"It is the proudest moment of my career. I'm honoured the club thinks so highly of me to give me this chance," he told swanseacityfc.net.

"It's the opportunity of a lifetime - and one I fully intend to take. I have had a taste of the job for the last three months and it's something I've really enjoyed.

"Now I'm really looking forward to the next phase in my life and the club's progression.

"I'll be looking to stamp my authority on the squad and the club - and take it forward.

"I have a plan in my mind and with the help of the chairman and the board how to implement it.

"I have been given a massive responsibility to manage this proud football club but I have always been a person that enjoys and relishes responsibility, so I am looking forward to the challenge.

"I have been at this football club for 10 years and I know what Swansea City means to everyone in the community - and beyond.

"That's what will drive me on to produce a successful team that plays attractive and attacking football. I want everyone connected to this club to be proud of the team.

"I am under no illusion how much hard work is needed going forward but I am willing to put that hard work in by giving everything I have to ensure Swansea City is a success."

Monk had a difficult start to his fledgling managerial career as after winning the south Wales derby against Cardiff in his first game he then took three points from his next six matches.

With the Swans threatened by relegation a 3-0 victory over fellow strugglers Norwich came just at the right time and further wins over Newcastle and Aston Villa ensured they were safe.

"As a board of directors we carefully considered our next step because it was a very important decision for our football club," said chairman Huw Jenkins.

"But having gone through that process we unanimously agreed that the timing was right for Garry to be offered the job on a permanent basis.

"As we look forward to our fourth season in the Premier League we all agreed that we needed to get back to basics and reinforce the principles that have brought us success in recent years.

"Garry represents all the strong values we hold so dearly as a football club and everyone is looking forward to working with him.

"We have all been impressed with his work-rate and commitment since taking over the reins in February and how he adapted in very difficult circumstances to secure the points we needed to remain in the top-flight.

"Garry will work with the current staff to refocus and improve the playing squad over the summer in order to build a strong, competitive team for another big challenge that lies ahead next season."